In a joint declaration at the conclusion of Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s visit to Pakistan, the two sides acknowledged that strong ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan are important for regional peace, security and development. They agreed to develop a plan for strengthening road, rail and air links and upgrade existing facilities.

Peshawar-Jalalabad Expressway project would be undertaken on a priority basis and feasibility study for Peshawar-Jalalabad rail link would be carried out, the declaration said.

The two sides also agreed to expand aviation links and extend bus services to additional destinations.

In the trade sector, the two countries decided to take requisite measures to enhance bilateral trade to $5 billion by 2015. They also agreed to explore opportunities for joint ventures and undertake projects to develop the region’s vast mineral and hydel resources.

The number of Afghan students getting education in Pakistani will be increased from 1,000 to 2,000 and special arrangements would be made for women Afghan students to facilitate their education in Pakistan.